American missionary Kevin Rideout has been released after more than nine months in captivity in Niger, his organization confirmed Friday. Rideout is in good health and under the care of U.S. officials, according to SIM International, an evangelical mission agency.
Rideout was kidnapped outside his home in Niamey, Niger, on Oct. 21, 2025. No armed group claimed responsibility for the abduction.
President Donald Trump announced Rideout's return on social media, expressing pride in his release and welcoming him home. Trump also criticized the "Jihadi terrorists" he blamed for the kidnapping and characterized West Africa as "the epicenter of Islamist terrorism."
The U.S. Embassy in Niamey had issued a security alert the day after Rideout's kidnapping, warning that American citizens faced a heightened risk of abduction throughout Niger, including in the capital.
Kevin Rideout's family expressed gratitude for the prayers offered during his captivity, particularly from the SIM community. Rideout is expected to be reunited with his extended family.